Public Information Update: 1700hrs Tuesday 12 April 2011

Water chlorination continues across the city, including Lyttelton to safeguard drinking water. Chlorine has been introduced on pump stations feeding the east side of the city to provide extra protection to the public water supply given the extensive damage that occurred to both the water supply and wastewater pipe networks after the February 22 earthquake.

Chlorine is a highly effective disinfectant and helps kill harmful bacteria that could potentially exist in the water or in the water supply pipes given the damage to the underground pipe network.

To reduce the smell and taste of chlorine in drinking water, boil chlorinated water or store it an open vessel in the refrigerator.

Water chlorination will continue until further notice. Extensive work is underway in designing and starting construction of new water mains and sewer pressure mains to reduce the risks to the public water supply. Once this work is completed, chlorine will be removed from the water supply.

Community briefings start this weekend

Round three Community Briefings will be held Saturday 16, Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April 2011.

Briefings will provide an update essential services and other important information about personal and community welfare as well as a general city-wide update and information about the areas surrounding each meeting location.

Briefings will be held at South New Brighton, Parklands, Shirley, Bromley, Sumner, Lyttelton, Woolston and Sydenham.